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Birds Around the Village

:

Birds Around the Village

Science Standards:
A12
A14A
A15
B1

Math Standards:
A3
C1
Cultural Standards:
D3
E2

Author (s):

Iditarod Area School District Donna Miller MacAlpine

Grade Level:

2, 3

Context:

several weeks, preferably during spring or fall migration

Region:

Interior Athabascan

Science Standards:

A12 - distinguish the patterns of similarity and differences in the living world in order to understand the diversity of life and understand the theories that describe the importance of diversity for species and ecosystems (Diversity)
A14A - understand the interdependence between living things and their environments;
A15 - use science to understand and describe the local environment;
B1 - use processes of science; these processes include observing, classifying, measuring, interpreting data, inferring, communicating, controlling variables, developing models and theories, hypothesizing, predicting and experimenting;

Skills and Knowledge:

1) Students will know the adaptive features of several types of birds which enable them to survive in their environment. (bills, feet, shape of wings and tail)
2) Students will know, both from personal observation and research, the habitat necessary for the survival of different types of birds and will be able to describe that habitat in terms of what the birds need to survive.
3) Students will observe and classify local birds and be able to describe similarities and differences.
4) Students will be able to use field guides to research and identify local birds.

Math Standards:

A3 - perform basic arithmetic functions, make reasoned estimates, and select and use appropriate methods or tools for computation or estimation including mental arithmetic, paper and pencil, a calculator, and a computer;
C1 - express and represent mathematical ideas using oral and written presentation, physical materials, pictures, graphs, charts, and algebraic expressions.

Skills and Knowledge:

1) Students will know migration routes, be able to draw them on a map and to calculate distances traveled for local birds.
2) Given the rate of travel of certain birds during their migration, students will first estimate and then calculate how long it will take them to arrive at specific destinations.
3) Students will be able to prepare charts and graphs to illustrate
such mathematical ideas as
- bird populations at different seasons
- ratio of edible to non-edible local birds
- proportion of types of birds in the local area

Cultural Standards: D3 - interact with elders in a loving and respectful way that demonstrates an appreciation of their role as culture bearers and educators in the community.
E2 - understand the ecology and geography of the bioregion they inhabit.

Skills and Knowledge:

1) Students will learn to work with local elders to identify local birds and their habitats.
2) Through working with elders students will acquire
a) an understanding of their connection to all living things
b) knowledge of the local ecology and environment
c) knowledge of local geography
3) Students will learn traditional bird stories and lore from the elders and understand that these are an important part of their Athabascan culture.

To see the full unit:
http://www.ankn.uaf.edu/curriculum/units/birds1.html

» Culturally-Responsive Units/Lessons

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